Breast Augmentation: Under the Muscle vs. Over the Muscle

If you’re considering breast augmentation, one of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to place the implants under the muscle or over the muscle. This choice can have a significant impact on the final result and long-term outcomes of your procedure.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between breast augmentation under the muscle and over the muscle, the benefits and drawbacks of each approach, and how to determine which option is right for you.

 

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, or symmetry of the breasts using implants or fat transfer. This popular cosmetic procedure is sought after by women who wish to achieve fuller breasts and enhance their overall appearance.

Breast Implant Placement Options

When it comes to breast augmentation, there are two primary options for implant placement: under the muscle (submuscular) or over the muscle (subglandular). Each approach offers unique advantages and considerations, which we’ll explore in detail below.

Breast Augmentation Under the Muscle

How Does It Work?

In breast augmentation under the muscle, the implants are placed beneath the pectoralis major muscle, which lies between the breast tissue and the chest wall. This technique provides additional coverage and support for the implants, resulting in a more natural-looking and feeling outcome.

Benefits

• Natural Appearance: Placing the implants under the muscle can help achieve a more natural-looking breast contour, with a smoother transition between the implant and the chest wall.
• Reduced Risk of Capsular Contracture: By providing an extra layer of tissue coverage, submuscular placement may lower the risk of capsular contracture, a complication characterized by the hardening of scar tissue around the implant.
• Easier Detection of Breast Abnormalities: Since the implants are positioned behind the muscle, they may be less likely to interfere with mammograms or breast cancer screenings, allowing for easier detection of breast abnormalities.

Drawbacks

• Longer Recovery Time: Breast augmentation under the muscle typically involves a longer recovery period compared to over-the-muscle placement, as the muscle may take longer to adjust and heal after surgery.
• Potential for Animation Deformity: In some cases, submuscular implants may move or distort the breast tissue when the chest muscles are flexed, resulting in a phenomenon known as animation deformity.

 

Breast Augmentation Over the Muscle

How Does It Work?

In breast augmentation over the muscle, the implants are placed directly behind the breast tissue, over the pectoralis muscle. This technique may be suitable for women with adequate breast tissue and minimal sagging who desire a more straightforward surgical approach.

Benefits

• Shorter Recovery Time: Since over-the-muscle placement does not involve manipulation of the chest muscle, the recovery time may be shorter compared to submuscular placement.
• Less Risk of Animation Deformity: Over-the-muscle implants are less likely to cause animation deformity, as they are not positioned beneath the muscle and therefore do not move in conjunction with chest muscle contractions.

Drawbacks

• Increased Risk of Capsular Contracture: Over-the-muscle implants may have a higher risk of capsular contracture compared to submuscular implants, as they are not as well-protected by surrounding tissue.
• Potential for Visible Implant Rippling or Edge Visibility: In women with minimal natural breast tissue, over-the-muscle placement may result in more visible implant rippling or edge visibility, particularly in thinner individuals.

 

Choosing the Right Option for You

When deciding between breast augmentation under the muscle and over the muscle, it’s essential to consider factors such as your natural breast anatomy, aesthetic goals, lifestyle, and surgeon’s recommendations. A thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast augmentation will help determine the most suitable approach for your individual needs.

At Grand Genesis Plastic Surgery, our experienced team of surgeons is dedicated to providing personalized care and helping you achieve your desired breast enhancement results with safety, precision, and artistry. Whether you opt for submuscular or subglandular placement, we’re here to guide you every step of the way and ensure a positive surgical experience.

 

Subfascial Breast Augmentation

Welcome to Grand Genesis Plastic Surgery’s blog, where we delve into the world of cosmetic enhancements to provide you with insightful information. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on a popular procedure: subfascial breast augmentation. If you’ve been considering breast augmentation, exploring your options is crucial. Let’s delve into what subfascial breast augmentation entails, its pros and cons, and why it might be the right choice for you.

 

What is Subfascial Breast Augmentation?

Subfascial breast augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. Unlike traditional methods where implants are placed either beneath the breast tissue (subglandular) or beneath the chest muscle (submuscular), subfascial augmentation involves inserting implants beneath the fascia, a dense layer of connective tissue that covers the chest muscles.

The Surgical Process

During a subfascial breast augmentation procedure, your plastic surgeon will make an incision, typically in the inframammary fold (the crease beneath the breast), around the areola, or in the armpit. Through this incision, the surgeon creates a pocket between the fascia and the chest muscle, where the implant is then carefully positioned. Once in place, the incisions are closed with sutures, and the breasts are bandaged for support.

Advantages of Subfascial Breast Augmentation

Natural Look and Feel

One of the key advantages of subfascial breast augmentation is the natural look and feel it provides. By placing the implants beneath the fascia, the procedure can achieve a more seamless integration with the surrounding tissues, resulting in breasts that look and feel more like natural breast tissue.

Reduced Risk of Animation Deformity

Animation deformity, where the movement of the chest muscles causes implants to shift unnaturally, is a concern with submuscular breast augmentation. However, placing implants in the subfascial space can help reduce the risk of this complication, as the fascia provides additional support and stability.

Faster Recovery Time

Compared to submuscular augmentation, subfascial breast augmentation often entails a shorter recovery period. Since the implants are not placed beneath the chest muscle, patients may experience less postoperative discomfort and a quicker return to normal activities.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Limited Suitability for Thin Patients

While subfascial breast augmentation offers numerous benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Thin patients with minimal breast tissue may not have enough natural coverage to conceal the edges of the implants adequately, potentially leading to a more visible or palpable implant outline.

Surgical Complexity

Subfascial breast augmentation can be more technically challenging than other placement options, requiring a skilled surgeon with experience in this specific technique. It’s essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who is well-versed in subfascial augmentation to ensure optimal results.

Revision Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, there is a possibility that revision surgery may be needed in the future. While subfascial breast augmentation can achieve long-lasting results, changes in breast shape or size, implant malposition, or other factors may necessitate additional procedures down the line.

Is Subfascial Breast Augmentation Right for You?

Determining whether subfascial breast augmentation is the best option for you depends on various factors, including your anatomy, aesthetic goals, and personal preferences. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the first step in exploring your options and developing a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

At Grand Genesis Plastic Surgery, our team of experienced plastic surgeons is committed to helping you achieve your desired aesthetic outcomes with safety, precision, and artistry. If you’re considering subfascial breast augmentation or any other cosmetic procedure, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Conclusion

In conclusion, subfascial breast augmentation offers a unique approach to breast enhancement, providing natural-looking results with potential advantages over traditional placement techniques. By understanding the intricacies of this procedure, including its benefits and considerations, you can make an informed decision about whether it aligns with your cosmetic goals.

Remember, choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is paramount to achieving the best possible outcomes. If you’re interested in learning more about subfascial breast augmentation or scheduling a consultation, contact Grand Genesis Plastic Surgery today. Let us help you enhance your confidence and embrace your beauty, inside and out.

 

Breast augmentation is a transformative procedure that offers women the opportunity to enhance their breast size and shape to achieve their aesthetic goals. Whether you choose breast augmentation under the muscle or over the muscle, understanding the differences between these approaches is essential for making an informed decision about your procedure.

By working closely with your plastic surgeon and discussing your concerns and objectives, you can determine the best option to achieve beautiful, natural-looking results that enhance your confidence and quality of life.

If you’re ready to embark on your breast augmentation journey, contact us at Grand Genesis Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards achieving the breasts you’ve always desired.